J.A. Corrigan’s The Nurse is a suspense novel that delves into the murky intersection of professional duty and personal obsession. The story follows Rose Marlowe, a dedicated nurse whose life unravels when she becomes entangles in the case of a vulnerable patient, Jess Harper. When Jess is found dead under suspicious circumstances, Rose’s involvement raises troubling questions – both for the authorities and for herself.

Corrigan constructs a layered narrative that shifts between timelines, gradually revealing the complexities of Rose’s past and her connection to Jess. The novel’s strength lies in its psychological tension, as Rose’s reliability as a narrator comes into the question. Is she a compassionate caregiver, or does she harbour darker motivations?

Atmosphere and characterisation

The book excels in creating an unsettling, claustrophobic mood, particularly in its depiction of medical settings where trust is paramount. Rose is a compelling protagonist – flawed, secretive, and increasingly desperate as the walls close in around her. Corrigan skilfully blurs the line between empathy and manipulation, keeping readers guessing about Rose’s true nature.

However, the pacing is uneven at times, with some sections dragging under the weight of repetitive introspection. Secondary characters, such as the investigating detective, feel underdeveloped, serving more as plot devices than fully realised individuals.

Themes of trust and control

At its core, The Nurse explores power dynamics in caregiving roles, asking how far professionals might go when their emotional boundaries collapse. Corrigan raises provocative questions about accountability, though the resolution leans toward melodrama rather than the subtlety promised earlier in the story.

Final thoughts

While not without flaws, The Nurse offers an intriguing dive into psychological suspense, bolstered by a strong central character and an unnerving premise. Fans of slow-burn thrillers with unreliable narrators may find it a worthwhile read, though those seeking brisk pacing or airtight plotting might be left wanting.